Matthew Krishanu

 

Matthew Krishanu is a Bradford-born, London-based painter.

His extensive body of work is frequently autobiographical, drawing upon memories and experiences from his childhood in Dhaka, where his parents were employed by the Church of Bangladesh following theological study in Birmingham. Discussing his practice, Matthew comments:

“I think of the paintings as coming from an interior place. I always have a personal connection to the subject matter: people I usually know or care about, places I remember for their atmosphere or feeling.”

Alongside these influences, Matthew’s practice is concerned with the canon of art history, particularly with reference to painting and to collections. His work probes some of the established and largely accepted narratives that exist in relation to legacies of racism, colonialism and power. These continue to shape artistic practice today.

During Coventry Biennial 2021, Matthew is presenting a newly commissioned artwork at Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum as well as works at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.

Matthew also had a discussion with fellow exhibiting artist Ryan Christopher about painting, their inspirations and experiences in our first communiqué, this conversation can be read from page 22 of this publication.

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